| Sumario: | Background: There are epidemiological studies which suggest that the athletic population is underserved by the eye care professions. The purpose of this investigation was to compare the epidemiological and visual examination findings from a cohort of amateur athletes to a similar cohort of amateur athletes that had been tested 10 years previously. Methods: Data collected from the 2009 Amateur Athletic Union Junior Olympic Games (AAUJOG) was analyzed and compared to data gathered from the 1997 and 1998 AAUJOG. A total of 12 sports were represented by 116 athletes, ranging in age from 6 to 18 years. Protocols were similar between the two screening events and included a history and appropriate vision examinations. Performance-based testing was calculated and compared to previous research by age group and sporting activity. Results: Among the 2009 athletes, more than 29% of participants had not received eye care for >3 years, with more than 20% indicating that they had never been examined by an eye care professional. This was slightly better than the 1997/8 rates. None of the 2009 athletes used the appropriate protective eyewear to prevent ocular injuries as compared to 1% in 1997/8. The most common visual symptoms were headaches, difficulty seeing, and light sensitivity. Comparing performance between the two screening events, no significant differences were identified. Increased performance with increased age for most tests was documented. Conclusions: The results of this study indicate a continued need for optometric services within the athletic population to ensure that the visual system is not limiting athletic performance and that eye protection is used to prevent injury.
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